Inouye advocated for Hanabusa to take his place in U.S. Senate

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye and Congresswoman Colleen Hana­busa had grown close in the last few years, and Ino­uye expressed the wish that she be appointed to succeed him in the Senate. The two met at a graduation ceremony last year for the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard Apprentice Program. Gov. Neil Abercrombie will choose Ino­uye's replacement from a list of three people recommended by the Demo­cratic Party of Hawaii.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye urged Gov. Neil Abercrombie to appoint U.S. Rep. Colleen Hana­busa as his successor, according to Ino­uye's spokes­man.

Inouye's recommendation was delivered in a letter to Abercrombie on Monday morning, before the senator succumbed to respiratory problems at a Bethesda, Md., hospital.

The governor said the letter was "personal," and while he spoke publicly about some of its contents, he did not discuss the recommendation.

"I cannot speak and will not speak for the family, but I believe it's important for everyone to know that the senator's thoughts and words were lucid and … available to us right up until the very last minute," Abercrombie said at a state Capitol news conference.

"It was not his faculties that were impaired at all. It's just that physically he gave everything."

Peter Boylan, Ino­uye's spokes­man and deputy chief of staff, said it was the senator's wish that Hana­busa take his place.

Inouye had grown fond of Hana­­busa in the past several years, and his preference for her as successor was known in political circles.

Political analysts have said that Hana­busa, 61, a Demo­crat who represents urban Hono­lulu's 1st Congressional District, would be considered the front-runner to replace Ino­uye. Another Demo­cratic contender is Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz, 40.

Hanabusa and Schatz on Monday declined to discuss politics and instead remembered Ino­uye.

Hanabusa described him as a mentor who never wavered in his commitment to put the needs of the people of Hawaii above his own.

"But beyond his well-deserved professional accolades, I am proud to have called Dan Ino­uye a friend and a mentor," she said in a statement. "His professional generosity and personal kindness have meant the world to me. I attribute a great deal of the success I have enjoyed to his willingness to share with a smile, and to guide with a gentle word. I will miss him, and I join our state and our nation in mourning the loss of a great American and a wonderful man."

Schatz said Ino­uye never lost his sense of aloha.

"We are all heartbroken to learn of the passing of this American hero," he said in a statement. "His legacy of self-sacrifice, service and aloha will never be replicated. We mourn his passing and offer our love and support to the Ino­uye ohana, his dedicated staff and to all those who have been touched by this great man.

"For all of his accomplishments, he never lost his sense of aloha or his love for Hawaii."

Under state law, Abercrombie must choose a successor from three people recommended by the Demo­cratic Party of Hawaii. The appointee will serve until voters elect a senator in 2014 to serve the remainder of Ino­uye's six-year term, which runs through 2016. Another election for a full six-year term would be held in 2016.

Dante Carpenter, Demo­cratic Party chairman, said the party would likely move quickly to make recommendations. "We'll be looking at that forthwith," he said.

If Hanabusa is chosen, a special election would be held to replace her in the U.S. House. It is likely that several Demo­crats would be interested in the seat. Republicans could include former Congressman Charles Djou, who lost a rematch to Hana­busa in November.

Djou also would not discuss politics Monday. "There has been no more consistent or passionate advocate for the people of Hawaii for nearly 60 years," he said in a statement.

"Senator Ino­uye was an American hero and selfless public servant, and it was an honor to serve with him in Hawaii's congressional delegation."

If Schatz is appointed, state Senate President Shan Tsu­tsui (D, Wai­hee-Wai­luku-Kahu­lui) would be in line to succeed him as lieutenant governor. If Tsu­tsui declines, whoever is House speaker would be next.

Abercrombie declined to speculate about the appointment process.

"As to what will take place with regard to the days to come, and what is to transpire with regard to the senator's passing, all in good time. All in good time," the governor said. "Right now I think that Irene (Ino­uye's wife) has expressed the thought that I have, that I'm sure all of you have, that it is time now for us to prepare for and to say our goodbyes.

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MalamaKaAinawrote:

Anybody but Mazie, Mufi, or Hanabusa!

on December 18,2012 | 12:55AM

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MalamaKaAinawrote:

Anybody but Abercrombie or Schatz!

on December 18,2012 | 01:49AM

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poidragonwrote:

What Dan wants, he should not get! Hanabusa was elected to a seat in the House of Reps and does not deserve a free ride to the now open Senate seat, formerly occupied by Dan Inouye; it sets a very bad precedent as she does not have the requisite experience on the Federal level. If anyone should be chosen to fill the seat, it should be Ed case, as he has the requisite experience working in Congress; but knowing how the Democratic party machine in Hawaii works, it will pick someone else to fill the seat until the 2014 elections, at which point Ms. Hanabusa may try and jump offices once again!

on December 18,2012 | 02:21AM

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wilikiwrote:

Ed Case can run for Tulsi Gabbard's seat in two years.

on December 18,2012 | 03:47AM

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OldDiverwrote:

I don't believe it makes sense to select anyone who has been roundly rejected by the voters this past election cycle.

on December 18,2012 | 05:35AM

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ROBTwrote:

Is it rejected or second best, the one negative thing on Dan I. Was this, his death and Akaka being too old! Akaka should have been replaced years ago because now we will have 2 senators with 0 seniority!!! Case was 100% correct and now this State will pay the price in the future... All this for a failed Akaka bill... ABSOLUTE DISSERVICE to the democratic party!

on December 18,2012 | 05:48AM

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Mythmanwrote:

No not exactly, because KSBE can buy the services on any senator just about and does indeed already "own" other senators so, it is not solely dependent on our state's congressional reps to do its dirty work, such as the A bill.

on December 18,2012 | 12:28PM

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wilikiwrote:

If we are going to appoint someone, then we should appoint the most capable person rather than make it a political decision. Abercrombie has made good appointments. I'm sure he figure out the best person for the job.

on December 18,2012 | 02:08PM

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pcmanwrote:

Any US Senator of Rep who does not bring home what Hawaii needs should not get reelected. Simple as that. If they cannot do the job, there is always someone else waiting in the wings: Case, Djou, Lingle.

on December 18,2012 | 06:54AM

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pcmanwrote:

Tulsi Gabbard has the women's and military vets votes. She is tied in for 50 years. Ed Case should switch to Independent or Republican and run against Maize or Hirono.

on December 18,2012 | 06:49AM

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KekoaBradshawwrote:

"...and run against Maize or Hirono." ????

on December 18,2012 | 07:57AM

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wilikiwrote:

Case probably did not run because he thought Hannemann was the toughest guy and would win. Nobody figured Tulsi with so little experience, could get the office. I suspect Case would win against Tulsi because he would get the outer island votes.

on December 18,2012 | 02:05PM

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benderwrote:

You may be right when you consider the question purely from a common sense point of view but everyone knows that Ed Case was on Inouye's kaka list so he will never be considered. What I don't like about the process is that the Democratic Party of Hawaii can submit 3 losers to the Governor and he has no choice but to select one of them. In two years that person can become so entrenched that the electroate can't get rid of them.

on December 18,2012 | 05:11AM

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OldDiverwrote:

So what do you suggest?

on December 18,2012 | 05:41AM

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dcontributorwrote:

bc

on December 18,2012 | 07:08AM

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NanakuliBosswrote:

BC,,,,,,,hahaha, ho ho ho, lol,lol,lol.

on December 18,2012 | 02:06PM

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pridonwrote:

An election.

on December 18,2012 | 11:21AM

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nonpoliticwrote:

I'm sorry, but your argument seems flawed. Anyone appointed to fill the Senate seat would essentially get a "free ride." In my view, Senator Inouye had the benefit of observing Ms. Hanabusa as a state senator and working with her as congressional delegate. Who would know better than he as to what it takes to effectively represent Hawaii in the halls of Congress? If he believed that Ms. Hanabusa is the best person to represent Hawaii, then I think we should defer to his better judgment. After all, I don't there are many Congressional delegates in history with a better track record of accomplishment than the late Mr. Inouye. He was truly a titan of the Senate.

on December 18,2012 | 07:22AM

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inversewrote:

Replacing Inouye with Hanabusa would be like replacing June Jones with MacMackin. You are advocating the same Hanabusa that was a part of Koolina and the ghost Aquarium tax credits, Legislative pay raises while cutting all other State worker salaries, aligned with Say AND Lingle a part of the Superferry fiasco and ousting of AG Margery Bronster because she help dismantle the KSBE trustee dictatorship?

on December 18,2012 | 09:14AM

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nonpoliticwrote:

I think it would prudent for you to revisit the issues you mentioned and take a closer look at what really happened in each circumstance. The Ko Olina tax credits were enacted by the Legislature to spur growth in the area, which they did (Disney, Marriott, and others), all without any cost to the taxpayers because the tax credits were never claimed. The legislative pay raises were not approved by the Legislature, but by a constitutionally mandated panel that made the recommendations years before the recession hit. The Superferry was supported by pretty much everyone in the State, the only issue most people had was with the way Lingle tried to expedite its operation. Finally, as I recall, Ms. Bronster was the Attorney General who stated that Waianae people weren't educated enough to properly use electronic balloting machines as her reason for elections results being anomalous in that area. Please do some real research before forming an opinion. Such postings diminish the credibility of the entire commentary process.

on December 18,2012 | 11:02AM

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Mythmanwrote:

True

on December 18,2012 | 12:30PM

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motherof17yearoldwrote:

I agree definitely. We don't need anymore idiots in Congress.

on December 18,2012 | 04:57AM

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OldDiverwrote:

Don't worry, Djou lost.

on December 18,2012 | 05:41AM

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hawaiikonewrote:

Djou isn't there, the idiots are.

on December 18,2012 | 06:30AM

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mellishiwrote:

...let the "musical chair's" begin on the first beat!

on December 18,2012 | 04:20AM

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motherof17yearoldwrote:

I wholeheartedly agree.

on December 18,2012 | 04:56AM

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peanutgallerywrote:

We just had an election. It is unconscienable for Dan to have been this greedy for this long. He dipped his beak for a half century. Now, the state is stuck with having Neil make an appointment. What a crock! Inouye overstayed the show by 50 years. As they say: power corrupts absolutely, and with Senator Inouye, we saw a classic example. Neither Schatz, or Hanabusa have what it takes to peform this job well and in the best interest of Hawai's people. Hawaii has been il-served by a Senator consumed with holding-on to power. Auwee!

on December 18,2012 | 01:42AM

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grantoswrote:

haters gonna hate

on December 18,2012 | 02:10AM

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poidragonwrote:

This situation could have been avoided but for Dan's overweening pride! Many of Hawaii's voters saw this day coming, and instead of working to groom a replacement or open the seat to new blood like Dan Akaka did, he stayed in office until the very end, leaving Hawaii with a sizable political power vacuum to deal with. Now Hawaii's delegates must start at the bottom and slowly work to create new political connections and affiliations in both the House of Reps and in the Senate! Dan Inouye has been a political icon for the last 50 years, doing great work for the people of Hawaii, his career and accomplishments should be celebrated, but with his unexpected passing, it has all come to naught in the end, especially when it could have been avoided with the proper planning....................which he did not do!

on December 18,2012 | 02:30AM

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wilikiwrote:

Hirono has gotten excellent committee asignments. And she will be actively participating to create legislation. OTOH in her first term in office, Hanabusa is already an assistant Minority Whip. She'll do just fine in the Senate. However, I think that if Hanabusa doesn't get it, then Hannemann will. He probably has a lot more DC experience and executive experience than Hanabusa-- or Tulsi Gabbard for that matter.

on December 18,2012 | 03:52AM

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benderwrote:

Hirono is a do nothing. She's just along for the ride. Mufi is a setting star following his stint at Honolulu Hale. Not even Abercrombie can revive Mufi's career by appointing him to the Senate. Hanabusa seems to be something of a go getter IMHO.

on December 18,2012 | 05:14AM

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OldDiverwrote:

Hirono has served Hawaii well in Congress. She beat the do nothing Governor this past November.

on December 18,2012 | 05:38AM

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hawaiikonewrote:

"Hirono has served Hawaii well in Congress". You;re quite the comedian this morning.

on December 18,2012 | 06:32AM

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mccwrote:

They are both do nothings. Hawaii voter's really did not have a decent person to pick this election as many in the past.

on December 18,2012 | 11:47AM

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wilikiwrote:

Hirono and Hanabusa have both done good jobs. The question is who's it going to be if Hanabusa is not appointed?

on December 18,2012 | 01:58PM

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pcmanwrote:

Hirorio has been in Congress for 6 years and has not gotten anything done for Hawaii. Why should she? She just rode the shirtlail of Inouye. No longer. Change may be in sight.

on December 18,2012 | 08:15AM

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falsewrote:

Hanabusa,yes Hanneman,definitely NO!!!

on December 18,2012 | 09:15AM

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inversewrote:

Changed from serving the rail kool aid to the Hanabusa kool aid? Tell us again how the $1.5 billion in federal money for the Oahu train to nowhere is a "done deal" and "money in the bank".

on December 18,2012 | 09:18AM

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pridonwrote:

Mufi. I think I would barf. You don't need executive experience. You honesty, integrity and competence. IMO Mufi is challenged in those areas.

on December 18,2012 | 11:26AM

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NanakuliBosswrote:

Republicans gotta hate.

on December 18,2012 | 07:02AM

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aomohoawrote:

Sounds like alotta hate on both sides, and very little Aloha.

on December 18,2012 | 10:42AM

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benderwrote:

Inouye wasn't up for reelection in the recent election. He was still on his term from 2010 so there was no reason for him to retire. I'm pretty sure he wasn't plannong on this happening, no one does.

on December 18,2012 | 05:17AM

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alikarx03wrote:

you must not have voted.....his name was on the ballot "bender". lay off the alcohol and benders.

on December 18,2012 | 05:44AM

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NITRO08wrote:

No you are wrong!

on December 18,2012 | 06:15AM

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HawaiiCheeseBallwrote:

he wa re-elected in 2010.

on December 18,2012 | 09:46AM

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pridonwrote:

If you are 88, no need to plan. It could happen at any time.

on December 18,2012 | 11:28AM

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NanakuliBosswrote:

Peanut, even your auwee reak of mainlanderism.

on December 18,2012 | 07:02AM

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copperwire9wrote:

wow.

on December 18,2012 | 08:34AM

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Mythmanwrote:

A lot of secrets are locked up and were they not they would rip this state apart........who is trustworthy to guard them?

There are big egos in our delegation, but I'm sure that Hirono will be able to help organize a team. She organized the women's caucus in the Hawaii Senate when there were few women. Perhaps she'll do the same in the US Senate and it'll probably be bipartisan. The women need to show the men what they can do.

on December 18,2012 | 03:57AM

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benderwrote:

Haha. I think if Hanabusa is appointed then she will rise to the top as the senior senator. Hirono will be lost without INouye telling her what to do. But whoever the Governor appoints, they will have equal time in the Senate. Their senority in the Senate is based on time in the Senate, not in DC.

on December 18,2012 | 05:20AM

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OldDiverwrote:

Bender, your nonsense is annoying.

on December 18,2012 | 05:40AM

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NITRO08wrote:

yes

on December 18,2012 | 06:16AM

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KekoaBradshawwrote:

The "senior Senator" for any state is the Senator from that state who has been there longer. So, Maizie Hirono, by virtue of her election last month, will always be Hawaii's "senior Senator" for as long as she serves in theSenate.

on December 18,2012 | 08:02AM

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wenshangwrote:

If the newly appointed Senator takes the oath prior to Hirono, I think the new person will be the senior Senator.

on December 18,2012 | 09:25AM

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pridonwrote:

The appointee if done soon can be sworn in before EOY and be senior to Mazie.

on December 18,2012 | 11:30AM

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wilikiwrote:

It wont matter. they'll work together as a team. And we really don't know yet who the governor may appoint. He may have a different opinion than Inouye.

on December 18,2012 | 01:53PM

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mokeblawrote:

Hawai'i deserve it, they put these rubber stamper in office. It's call sowing and reaping. Like I said before, you can't teach or change stup*d. It's not about party, it's about putting the right person in office. Now Hawai'i will have a luau without any pork, :-O!

on December 18,2012 | 04:59AM

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Wazdatwrote:

classic

on December 18,2012 | 06:40AM

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EwaWarriorwrote:

Just goes to show that sometimes a great man like Senator Inouye can be out of touch! Just say nooooooooo!!!! Hawai'i can do so much better than Hanabusa!!!!

on December 18,2012 | 03:12AM

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wilikiwrote:

It's a good choice... but will the men of Hawaii, tolerate two female senators? It's still a boy's club after all.

on December 18,2012 | 03:45AM

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Wazdatwrote:

Yes, but NOT these 2 who are USELESS

on December 18,2012 | 06:40AM

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KekoaBradshawwrote:

California's gotten along just fine with two female Senators, Boxer and Feinstein. Same thing in Maine, with Senators Snowe and Collins.

on December 18,2012 | 08:03AM

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pridonwrote:

Two idiots.

on December 18,2012 | 11:32AM

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wilikiwrote:

I don't think that there will be any problems in the senate. It's just that the Party tends to be a little conservative. They may prefer a man?

on December 18,2012 | 01:45PM

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auntywrote:

Or the obvious--give Abercrombie back to DC and keep Schatz as Gov--2 problems solved!

on December 18,2012 | 04:10AM

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benderwrote:

I'm not comfortable with having Schatz in DC or Washington Place. I can't imagine him as either a US Senator or Governor. We shoudl keep him in charge of cleaning the chalk board, can't even trust him with the pencil sharpener.

on December 18,2012 | 05:22AM

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MalamaKaAinawrote:

his brother can help!

on December 18,2012 | 12:02PM

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wondermn1wrote:

Hanabusa did a great job on the Waianae coast, we never had a homless problem and the economy in Nanakuli through Makaha is great. The wonderful sidewalks and landscape as you drive through the area is eye popping. The ice trade has been an economic boost to the area and I see now they are bringing in special light poles that will actually talk back to the people.
We have the worlds most beautiful dump even though the name is misleading Waimanalo gulch, some of the locals found out it really was across from the Koolina resort . Great Job Hanabusa, with her leadership all of America can look like Maili.

on December 18,2012 | 04:32AM

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retirewrote:

Point welll taken.

on December 18,2012 | 06:33AM

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hawaiikonewrote:

Enjoyed that...

on December 18,2012 | 06:35AM

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Wazdatwrote:

So true...voters of this state are NOT that SMART at all....

on December 18,2012 | 06:41AM

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Grahamwrote:

You should write Shapiros' column when he goes on vacation..

on December 18,2012 | 07:38AM

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townboundwrote:

Don't forget her and Ben raiding the Employee Retirement Fund.

on December 18,2012 | 09:11AM

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Giliganwrote:

Anybody but Hanaboosa! Case, Lingle, Mufi, Djou, any of them would represent Hawaii well.

on December 18,2012 | 04:50AM

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benderwrote:

You did read that the Democratic Party of Hawaii will submit 3 names to the Governor. What makes you think they would put Lingle or Djou on that list? And I hate to think of Mufi in DC, he did too much damage while Mayor, our country couldn't afford him.

on December 18,2012 | 05:24AM

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NITRO08wrote:

NOT LINGLE OR DJOU DON'T NEED MORE CORPORATE PEOPLE IN OFFICE WORKING FOR THE KOCH BROTHERS!

on December 18,2012 | 06:20AM

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EwaWarriorwrote:

Cayatano den!!!! Maybe he can stop the rail from DC?

on December 18,2012 | 06:52AM

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blackmuranowrote:

Oh my goodness not Hanabusa !!!. Your replacing a Moderate with a far left liberal. Hanabusa and Hirano in the US Senate????
Neil please send back a "Hawaiian" to Congress. I'm sure the Democratic party has Hawaiians would do. We need a Hawaiian. How about State Senator Mike Gabbard????

on December 18,2012 | 04:54AM

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peanutgallerywrote:

Careful what you ask. He may serve-up Gufi.

on December 18,2012 | 05:17AM

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nonpoliticwrote:

Sorry, Mike Gabbard is not Hawaiian.

on December 18,2012 | 07:28AM

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KekoaBradshawwrote:

Sorry, Mike Gabbard's not a native Hawaiian.

on December 18,2012 | 08:06AM

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Imagenwrote:

Oh please not Gabbard! No more Gabbards please in our government...

on December 19,2012 | 10:46AM

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mishtahwrote:

This comment has been deleted.

on December 18,2012 | 05:05AM

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Mythmanwrote:

She has my vote.....

on December 18,2012 | 12:33PM

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Publicbraddahwrote:

I cannot see Hanabusa taking over when she has no power in Congress. I'd go with Eric Shinseki, the former Army Chief of Staff. He's got a lot of influence on Capitol Hill and he's got Hawaii ties as well. I see NO ONE from the current group of Hawaii politicians who will have the clout to even approach what Inouye has.

on December 18,2012 | 05:20AM

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McCullywrote:

Excellent choice!

on December 18,2012 | 06:06AM

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EwaWarriorwrote:

I concur!

on December 18,2012 | 06:54AM

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Imagenwrote:

I too!

on December 19,2012 | 10:47AM

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NITRO08wrote:

Any body we send will not have any power in congress it come with seniority.

on December 18,2012 | 06:22AM

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mellishiwrote:

...then, I'll go- send me!

on December 18,2012 | 07:21AM

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inversewrote:

I agree as well, like McCully said EXCELLENT CHOICE! Shinseki is a decorated combat veteran, four star general, former Army chief of staff, etc. and has laid relatively low, although his time as Secretary of Veteran Affairs has not been stellar. Regardless, Shinseki is FAR SUPERIOR and better for Hawaii to take Inouye's place than Hanabusa, HIrono, Case, Lingle, Mufi, Schatz, etc. etc.

on December 18,2012 | 09:29AM

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HawaiiCheeseBallwrote:

Does he meet the residency requirement?

on December 18,2012 | 09:57AM

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nonpoliticwrote:

Is he a citizen of Hawaii and a member of the Democratic Party for the past six months? If not, he wouldn't meet the minimum requirements to be appointed.

on December 18,2012 | 11:05AM

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MalamaKaAinawrote:

Shinseki is an Excellent Choice!

on December 18,2012 | 12:18PM

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Mythmanwrote:

Gen. Shinseki is doing a great job at the VA. More better to let him stay there for four years than to spend a temporary term in the Senate, I think. Good choice though. What about Clayton Hee?

on December 18,2012 | 12:35PM

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gthwrote:

The mole (Mufi) came out of the hole yesterday. Wonder what he wants?!!!

on December 18,2012 | 05:30AM

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MalamaKaAinawrote:

dats funny

on December 18,2012 | 12:19PM

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alfie1wrote:

What else to say--"ALOHA" Dan

on December 18,2012 | 05:46AM

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wondermn1wrote:

Maybe MUFEE wants a train ride to the North shore so he can surf Waimea for the Eddie. He could sing songs on the way:)
The voters of Hawaii would probably vote for him because he is tall.To bad his dad isn't named Gabbard or his daughter enjoys a daily BONG because then for sure they would vote MUFEEEEEEEEEEEE

It's time for Abercrombie to start fresh and NOT pick recycled politicians.

on December 18,2012 | 06:07AM

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lee1957wrote:

Democratic Party of Hawaii, think out of the box; put Dan Akaka's name on the list. He only need serve until the 2014 election.

on December 18,2012 | 06:14AM

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EwaWarriorwrote:

Ha! Good one!

on December 18,2012 | 06:55AM

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seriouswrote:

This is all Democratic politics. The Governor will never appoint Hanabusa since that would open up an election and anything can happen. (Remember Ted Kennedy's seat?) He will appoint one of the three losers coming out of the Democratic committee to maintain our position in DC as the state with the most ineffective legislators.

on December 18,2012 | 06:25AM

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Publicbraddahwrote:

If that happens, it's obvious who will apply for the opening; Mufi, Linda, Ed, Peter, and Charles.

on December 18,2012 | 01:48PM

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gtracer66wrote:

What's with this law about the Democratic party is to nominate a replacement for Sen Inouye? I understand that the state is like a little kid that holds it's breath until it turns blue. I get it.. Hawaii is a blue state. But for once, maybe we need to try getting a balanced Bi-partisan leadership in Congress. While I may not be supporting any one candidate, I feel that we should at least try to have a Republican in the Senate. After all, it would be only as long as the existing term. If it didn't work, then we can once again elect another socialist..oops Democrat.

on December 18,2012 | 06:36AM

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EwaWarriorwrote:

Well said!

on December 18,2012 | 06:56AM

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seriouswrote:

Agreed, but never happen in this state!!! I sometimes think they should just preprint X Democrat on the ballots.

on December 18,2012 | 07:12AM

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KekoaBradshawwrote:

The law is in place to make sure that a Senator from one party, elected by the poeple of Hawaii, is replaced by someone from the same party. Let's say that Linda Lingle was still Governor: without this law, she could resign from being Governor, to be replaced by Lt. Gov. Aiona as Governor. Governor Aiona would then appoint ex-Gov. Lingle to the Senate! A Republican would be replacing a Democrat. If Inouye had been a Republican, it would be the Republican central committee which would be sibmitting the names of three Republicans for Gov. Abercrombie to appoint. It's important to realize that the appointment is only good for two years, until 2014, when an election will be held for the remaining two years of Inouye's term.

on December 18,2012 | 08:13AM

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Kalaheo1wrote:

Thank you very much for your clear and simple explanation.

on December 18,2012 | 04:17PM

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copperwire9wrote:

You might try reading the state's Constitution to find out why the party of the person who died IS the party to make the nominations. Don't like that? Maybe you should move.

on December 18,2012 | 08:36AM

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Wazdatwrote:

NO, NO, NO...

on December 18,2012 | 06:37AM

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wondermn1wrote:

Hawaii is a one party state with PRP running the show

on December 18,2012 | 07:01AM

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EwaWarriorwrote:

LOL!!! More hanabutta days ahead?

on December 18,2012 | 06:52AM

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OldDiverwrote:

One less to deal with.

on December 18,2012 | 07:01AM

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Kuokoawrote:

Of course appointing Hanabusa would be the most expesive option because a special election must be held to replace her in the House of Representatives. Oh yeah, these are democrats who only know how to spend tax money to pay their people.

on December 18,2012 | 07:09AM

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Maneki_Nekowrote:

Hanabusa will get the seat. It was Dan's wish and to do otherwise will alienate the Kepani vote, the most powerful faction in the state. The more interesting thing is Hanabusa's replacement. I had to laugh yesterday to see the old Mufster come springing back up from the ground - zombie politician. Didn't even wait a day.

on December 18,2012 | 07:18AM

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KekoaBradshawwrote:

Don't forget that the old Mufster has a Kepani wife. That didn't help him win the Kepani vote last time around.

on December 18,2012 | 08:16AM

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mccwrote:

Dan is still trying to control Hawaii politics, even in death. He messed up the succession process by squeezing Ed Case out when he tried to replace Akaka a few years ago. Now we will have two freshman Senators from Hawaii. Good luck!

on December 18,2012 | 07:29AM

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DABLACKwrote:

Expect the worse, but support the outcome of who's appointed. Now is the time to work together and not against each other ! Good Luck to all. And God Bless. We're gonna need it !!

on December 18,2012 | 07:56AM

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MakaniKaiwrote:

There has to be an honorable and akamai citizen out there, somewhere – I agree with blackmurano a Hawaiian/Polynesian representing the Nei would be in order. Perhaps one of the Trask sisters…..nah nah just kidding! But please Abs none of the usual suspects! Tired already. New koko please. Aloha.

on December 18,2012 | 08:19AM

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wai808kikiwrote:

So what happens now to the East-West Center and rail without Senator Inouye's backing? Where will their support come from now?
Btw, I'm for a non-traditional and non-old boy network Democrat to replace him. That's if there's anyone out there. If given a choice between Hanabusa, Case, and Hanneman, hands down it would be Case. In my opinion, at least Case had the courage to run against the old boy network.

on December 18,2012 | 09:44AM

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kerlampertwrote:

It is appropriate to honor Senator Innouye, by nominating his choice as succesor. He was an honorable man....and iit will be hard to live up to his reputation. Anyone who follows him will have to fill some very big shoes.

on December 18,2012 | 09:48AM

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seriouswrote:

Please explain!! He had 50 years to fix the Jones Act!!!!

on December 18,2012 | 12:18PM

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pridonwrote:

He's gone. Why should he dictate anything. Maybe just appoint his wife. No need to incur any moving expenses. After all Hillary became Sec State on her husbands coat tails and Claire McCaskill replaced her deceased husband. Mrs Inoy is likely better connected in Dc than any of the local political hacks. Alternatively, Walter Dods. Strong supported of Inoye over the years. have him serve out the term. He would have no political agenda and no baggage.

on December 18,2012 | 01:07PM

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HawaiiCheeseBallwrote:

Two secnarios (1) Abercrombie will appoint an true interm Senator. Someone who can function in Washington, but not run for the seat. Senate seats need to be earned through the election process, not inherited. Appointing someone who would run for the seat would give that person the power of incumbency especially the ability to raise money. i think Abercrombie will actually appoint someone like John Waihee on the condition he agrees not to run for the seat. That will give the Democrats candidates time to gear up for the special election in 2014. It also allows the Dems time to line up someone to run for Hanabusa's District 1 seat. On the other hand (2) I could be completely wrong and Abercrombie will just appoint Hanabusa abd put the Senate seat to rest as no one will be able to rasie more campaign cash than her, and eliminate the possibiity that Hanabusa will run against him for Governor in 2014, and all will be good.

on December 18,2012 | 09:56AM

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KimoSabeywrote:

Let the speculation begin. If the current batch of congress people are to be considered they have no seniority. Also would Neil appoint someone to be his new boss? No. It must be someone who may leave after just 1.8 years. Okay who has retired? Akaka and Cayetano. If either are considered Neil can run for the Senate in a special election with the most possibility in a special election. He could also appoint himself but elevate Schatz to governor and the political power that comes with it. Schatz the new power house? No there is a governatoral race in 2014 that he would have to run for.
Next would Akaka come out of retirement? Maybe but he has said No Mas. Ben would not run again as he has said but could be the ally Neil is looking for in the next step up. Neil has the power but not the numbers of positives. He has always wanted to take Dan's place but how about age?He could put in 8 years(special and reelection) after 2014 and retire for the next group to fight over. But Akaka has the seniority for now. This is how politicians look at the future. Power and more power. Who gets the big funding from PRP and unions?The new kids on the block are just pawns compared to the big possibilities. You can bet Linda will be in the special election and that could be the Dems worst nightmare as she could win like Djou did in a winner take all from the field of many. Watch for Lingle to take back the party herself this coming year and Neil be the king maker or a king for a short time. Take it to the bank unless Neil passes on.
So I predict an older statesman with power to help Neil being appointed not an adversary down the road. Take that you high pad pundits!

on December 18,2012 | 10:15AM

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MalamaKaAinawrote:

SENATOR LINGLE.....so let it be written so let it be done!

on December 18,2012 | 12:22PM

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HawaiiCheeseBallwrote:

Linda 37% Lingle? That one? Are you kidding me?

on December 18,2012 | 12:46PM

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808compwrote:

Since we are starting from the bottom,i think General Shinseki would be a good canidate.

on December 18,2012 | 10:22AM

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Fred01wrote:

Hanabusa is absolutely disgusting, and so is everyone who voted for her.

on December 18,2012 | 10:22AM

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MalamaKaAinawrote:

SA......tell the public more about the ongoing fiasco at Ko Olina...

on December 18,2012 | 12:23PM

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yskeulbwrote:

If it's for two years, appoint Senator Akaka. He has more seniority than anyone else we can appoint and we can develop the right plan within those two years.

on December 18,2012 | 10:27AM

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entrknwrote:

Hawaii needs to pick wisely and with a long-term view... Tulsi Gabbard and Brian Schatz would be my picks.

on December 18,2012 | 10:36AM

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kainaluwrote:

Same ol' posters have to grab their tissues and wipe away their tears. Boo hoo hoo.

on December 18,2012 | 11:15AM

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CloudForestwrote:

Appoint Djou as the senator and prove that you are reaching across the isle and willing to progress to new frontiers on the political horizons of the future.

on December 18,2012 | 11:43AM

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Mythmanwrote:

There appears to be a discrepency in the story line? Did Sen Inouye send a letter to Neil in which he said he is going to resign, or, cannot finish his term and then died expectantly? How could he know he was going to die and so tell Neil to appoint Colleen? Did anybody else pick up on this , or what?

on December 18,2012 | 12:40PM

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inversewrote:

Could be Inouye's staff who wrote the letter in which they made a deal with Hanabusa that if they wrote the letter pretending to be Inouye, she would retain Inouye staffers in some shape or form if Hanbusa would be appointed. The way Inouye passed appears to be a facade to give the public the appearance of an orderly well thought out plan of successiion crafted by Inouye himself and to show that at death, Inouye was always in control, even to the point that his last word allegedly was 'aloha'. Given that Inouye truly was a hero both on the battlefield and in Congress, you have to give them some slack on this story manipulation. However the so called letter from Inouye endorsing Hanabusa to take his place in the senate should be discounted as suspect.

on December 19,2012 | 03:41AM

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blackmuranowrote:

I made an earlier statement about a "hawaiian" should be our next U.S. Senator. But as a Army retired veteran, I failed to see that Kauai born, and former U.S. Army Chief of staff, Eric Shinseki would be a very good choice for Senator Inouye's Senate seat. His already i Obama's current cabinet as the head of the Veteran Administration.
Senator Inouye was a very strong voice and supporter for the military. Like Senatior Inouye, we need another "veteran" to fill that seat. Eric Shinseki has influence in Congress which will be beneficial for our State of Hawaii.
How about it, Neil? Eric Shinseki for Senator Dan Inouye's seat.